RU2754901C2 - Cartridge assembly containing a locking element - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: smoking devices.SUBSTANCE: group of inventions relates to a cartridge assembly for use in an aerosol generating system and to an aerosol generating system. The cartridge assembly for use in the aerosol generating system contains a mouthpiece case having an end located ahead along flow and an end located further along flow, while the mouthpiece case forms a mouthpiece cavity passing between the end of the mouthpiece case located ahead along flow and the end of the mouthpiece case located further along flow, a locking element fixed in the mouthpiece cavity and containing an end located ahead along flow and an end located further along flow, and a cartridge, located at the end of the mouthpiece case located ahead along flow. The cartridge contains an end located ahead along flow and an end located further along flow, the first compartment having the first air inlet at the end of the cartridge located ahead along flow and the first air outlet at the end of the cartridge located further along flow and the second compartment having the second air inlet at the end of the cartridge located ahead along flow and the second air outlet at the end of the cartridge located further along flow. The end of the cartridge located further along flow is adjacent to the end of the locking element located ahead along flow. The cartridge is made with the possibility of rotation relatively to the locking element from the first position to the second position. The locking element has such a shape that the end of the locking element located ahead along flow locks the first air outlet and the second air outlet, when the cartridge is in the first position, and the first air outlet and the second air outlet both communicate through fluid with the mouthpiece cavity, when the cartridge is in the second position.EFFECT: technical result is providing the cartridge assembly for use in the aerosol generating system, in which one or more volatile compounds are retained during storage, and which minimizes the need for removable or brittle partitions.21 cl, 7 dwg

Description

The present invention relates to a cartridge assembly for use in an aerosol generating system and to an aerosol generating system comprising the cartridge assembly. The present invention finds particular use as a cartridge assembly containing a nicotine source and an acid source for generating an aerosol containing nicotine salt particles.

Devices for delivering nicotine to a user are known, comprising a nicotine source and a volatile delivery-accelerating compound source. For example, WO 2008/121610 A1 discloses devices in which nicotine and a volatile acid such as pyruvic acid react with each other in the gas phase to form an aerosol of nicotine salt particles that is inhaled by the user.

In WO 2008/121610 A1, the nicotine source and the delivery-accelerating volatile compound source may be housed in compartments that are hermetically sealed with removable or brittle baffles prior to the initial use of the aerosol generating system.

However, the addition of a plurality of removable or brittle baffles can disadvantageously increase the cost and complexity of such aerosol generating systems. Therefore, it would be desirable to provide a cartridge assembly for use in an aerosol generating system in which one or more volatile compounds can be retained during storage and that minimizes the need for removable or brittle baffles.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a cartridge assembly is provided for use in an aerosol generating system, the cartridge assembly comprising a mouthpiece body, a locking member, and a cartridge. The mouthpiece body has an upstream end and a downstream end, with the mouthpiece body defining a mouthpiece cavity extending between the upstream end of the mouthpiece body and the downstream end of the mouthpiece body. The blocking element is fixed in the mouthpiece cavity and contains an upstream end and a downstream end. The cartridge is located at an upstream end of the mouthpiece body, the cartridge having an upstream end and a downstream end. The cartridge also includes a first compartment having a first air inlet at the upstream end of the cartridge and a first air outlet at the downstream end of the cartridge. The cartridge also includes a second compartment having a second air inlet at the upstream end of the cartridge and a second air outlet at the downstream end of the cartridge. The downstream end of the cartridge abuts the upstream end of the blocking member. The cartridge is rotatable relative to the blocking element from the first position to the second position. The blocking member is shaped such that the upstream end of the blocking member obstructs the first air outlet and the second air outlet when the cartridge is in the first position, with both the first air outlet and the second outlet for air are in fluid communication with the cavity of the mouthpiece when the cartridge is in the second position.

In the context of this document in relation to the present invention, the term "air inlet" is used to describe one or more openings through which air can be drawn into a component or part of a component of the cartridge assembly.

In the context of this document in relation to the present invention, the term "air outlet" is used to describe one or more openings through which air can be discharged from a component or part of a component of a cartridge assembly.

In the context of this document in relation to the present invention, the term “obstructed” means that the air inlet or air outlet is blocked such that air flow through the air inlet or air outlet is substantially prevented.

The cartridge assembly according to the present invention comprises a blocking member configured to obstruct the first and second air outlets of the cartridge when the cartridge is in the first position. Advantageously, this can eliminate the need to provide a removable or brittle seal at the downstream end of the cartridge.

The cartridge assembly according to the present invention comprises a cartridge pivotable relative to the blocking member from a first position in which the blocking member obstructs the first and second air outlets to a second position in which the first and second air outlets are in fluid communication with a mouthpiece cavity. Advantageously, this can simplify the use of the cartridge assembly by allowing the user to open the first and second air outlets without having to remove the seal or break the seal at the downstream end of the cartridge.

The cartridge assembly may be configured such that the cartridge is pivotable relative to the locking member between a first position and a second position. That is, the cartridge can be rotatable from a first position to a second position, and is rotatable from a second position to a first position. This may allow the user to rotate the cartridge from the second position to the first position to re-obstruct the first and second air outlets. Advantageously, this can reduce the loss of one or more volatile compounds that can be stored in at least one of the first compartment and the second compartment between the individual uses of the cartridge.

One of the blocking member and the cartridge may comprise an opening, while the other of the blocking member and the cartridge comprises a shaft, and wherein at least a portion of the shaft is located within the opening. Advantageously, the combination of the shaft and the hole facilitates the rotation of the cartridge with respect to the locking element. Advantageously, the shank and hole combination can be easy to manufacture and assemble.

Preferably, the bore forms a sleeve bearing.

The hole may pass through the blocking element between the upstream end of the blocking element and the downstream end of the blocking element, with the rod extending from the downstream end of the cartridge. Advantageously, such placement can facilitate embodiments in which the length of the rod is greater than the length of the hole. In particular, the mouthpiece cavity can receive any portion of the rod that extends beyond the downstream end of the blocking member.

Preferably, the shaft comprises a neck located in the hole and a retaining part at the end of the neck, the retaining part being located outside the hole and having a diameter that is larger than the diameter of the hole. Advantageously, the retaining portion holds the neck of the rod in the hole and prevents the cartridge from separating from the locking element and the mouthpiece body.

The blocking member may comprise a first portion defining a first side of the opening and a second portion defining a second side of the opening, the first and second portions being formed separately and connected to form the blocking member. Advantageously, the formation of the blocking member in two separate parts can facilitate assembly of the cartridge assembly. For example, the neck of the rod may be positioned in at least one of the first side of the opening and the second side of the opening before the first and second portions are joined to form the locking member.

The first and second portions may be joined by at least one of an interference fit, glue, and welding, such as ultrasonic welding.

The retaining part may comprise a tapered part. Advantageously, providing the retaining portion with a tapered portion can facilitate insertion of the retaining portion through the opening during assembly of the cartridge assembly, particularly in embodiments in which the locking element is formed as a single piece. In such embodiments, the maximum diameter of the tapered portion is preferably small enough that the elastic deformation of the material constituting the blocking member can accommodate the retaining portion when it is pushed through the hole during assembly of the cartridge assembly.

Preferably, the cross-sectional dimension of the tapered portion increases upstream along the length of the tapered portion from the downstream end of the tapered portion. Advantageously, this can facilitate insertion of the retaining portion into the hole during assembly of the cartridge assembly. Preferably, the upstream end of the tapered portion has a diameter that is larger than the diameter of the opening. Preferably, the downstream end of the tapered portion has a smaller diameter than the bore. The tapered portion may have a cross-sectional dimension that varies linearly along the length of the tapered portion. For example, the tapered portion may be tapered. The tapered portion can have a cross-sectional dimension that varies non-linearly along the length of the tapered portion. For example, the tapered portion may be rounded.

Preferably, the rod comprises a stepped diameter change between the upstream end of the tapered portion and the downstream end of the neck, with the downstream end of the neck having a diameter that is less than the diameter of the upstream end of the tapered portion. Advantageously, the stepped change in diameter can prevent the tapered portion from being pulled back through the hole after the cartridge assembly is assembled.

The cartridge may include a guide pin extending from the downstream end of the cartridge, the guide pin being adjacent to the first portion of the blocking member when the cartridge is in the first position, and the guide pin being adjacent to the second portion of the blocking member when the cartridge is in second position. Advantageously, the guide pin can facilitate accurate rotation of the cartridge to the second position by the user. In embodiments in which the cartridge can also be rotated from the second position to the first position, the guide pin can facilitate accurate rotation of the cartridge to the first position by the user. Preferably, the guide pin is spaced from the pivot of the cartridge relative to the locking member so that the guide pin follows an arcuate path when the cartridge is pivoted from the first position to the second position.

Preferably, the blocking element comprises a guide hole passing through the blocking element between the upstream end of the blocking element and the downstream end of the blocking element, the guide pin being positioned in the guide hole. Preferably, the guide pin abuts the first side of the guide hole when the cartridge is in the first position. Preferably, the guide pin is adjacent to the second side of the guide hole when the cartridge is in the second position.

The blocking member may include a first recess formed on a first side of the guide hole, the guide pin being positioned in the first recess by an interference fit when the cartridge is in the first position. Advantageously, the interference fit can cause the guide pin to snap into the first recess when the cartridge is moved to the first position from the second position. This can provide a tactile confirmation to the user that the cartridge has been successfully rotated to the first position. The locking element may include a first retainer extending into a guide hole to provide an interference fit between the first recess and the guide pin.

The blocking member may include a second recess formed on the second side of the guide hole, the guide pin being positioned in the second recess by an interference fit when the cartridge is in the second position. Advantageously, the interference fit can cause the guide pin to snap into the second recess when the cartridge is moved to the second position from the first position. This can provide a tactile confirmation to the user that the cartridge has been successfully rotated to the second position. The locking element may include a second retainer extending into the guide hole to provide an interference fit between the second recess and the guide pin.

The blocking element may comprise only a first depression, only a second depression, or both a first depression and a second depression. In embodiments in which the cartridge assembly is configured such that the cartridge can only be rotated from the first position to the second position, preferably the interference fit between the guide pin and the second recess is substantially irreversible. In other words, the force required to remove the guide pin from the second recess may be at least double the force required to insert the guide pin into the second recess. The interference fit may be such that the guide pin cannot be pivoted out of the second recess without breaking the guide pin.

The cartridge may comprise a cartridge body disposed at the upstream end of the mouthpiece body and rotatable relative to the blocking member from a first position to a second position, and a cartridge body secured to the cartridge body, with the cartridge body defining a first compartment and a second compartment. Advantageously, forming the cartridge from the cartridge body and the cartridge body can simplify the manufacture of the cartridge.

Preferably, the cartridge body comprises a wall at the downstream end.

Preferably, the first and second air outlets extend through the wall at the downstream end.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a rod, preferably the rod extends downstream of the wall at the downstream end. Preferably, the rod is integrally formed with the wall at the downstream end.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a guide pin, the guide pin preferably extends downstream of the wall at the downstream end. Preferably, the guide pin is integrally formed with the wall at the downstream end.

Preferably, the cartridge body defines a cavity of the cartridge body in which the cartridge body is received. Preferably, the cartridge body defines an opening of the cartridge body at the upstream end of the cartridge body. Advantageously, the cartridge body can be inserted into the cavity of the cartridge body through the opening of the cartridge body.

The cartridge body and cartridge body may be shaped to limit the number of angular orientations of the cartridge body relative to the cartridge body in which the cartridge body can be inserted into the cartridge body. Preferably, the cartridge body and the cartridge body are shaped such that the cartridge body can only be inserted into the cartridge body in one angular orientation. In embodiments in which the first and second air outlets extend through the downstream wall of the cartridge body, preferably the angular orientation is such that when the cartridge body is placed in the cartridge body, the downstream end of the first compartment lies over the first port for air, and the downstream end of the second compartment lies over the second air hole.

The cartridge body may be held in the cartridge body by at least one of an interference fit, adhesive, and welding such as ultrasonic welding. Preferably, the cartridge body is held in the cartridge body by an interference fit. Advantageously, an interference fit simplifies cartridge fabrication and assembly.

The body of the cartridge can be made in one piece.

The cartridge body comprises a first portion and a second portion joined by the first portion to form the cartridge body. Advantageously, the formation of the cartridge body from the first and second portions can facilitate the insertion of material into at least one of the first compartment and the second compartment during assembly of the cartridge assembly.

The first part of the cartridge body may form the first side of the first compartment and the first side of the second compartment. The second body part of the cartridge may form the second side of the first compartment and the second side of the second compartment. Any materials to be placed in the first compartment may be placed in the first side of the first compartment or the second side of the first compartment before the first and second portions are joined to form the cartridge body. Any materials to be placed in the second compartment may be placed in the first side of the second compartment or the second side of the second compartment before the first and second portions are joined to form the cartridge body.

The first and second body parts of the cartridge may be joined together by at least one of an interference fit, glue, and welding, such as ultrasonic welding. Preferably, the first and second body parts of the cartridge are joined together by an interference fit. Advantageously, an interference fit simplifies the fabrication and assembly of the cartridge body.

Preferably, the cartridge body comprises a wall at the upstream end, the first and second air inlets being wall-defined at the upstream end.

The blocking element can be spaced from the downstream end of the mouthpiece body, with a portion of the mouthpiece cavity between the downstream end of the blocking element and the downstream end of the mouthpiece body forming a mixing chamber. In embodiments described herein, in which the first compartment contains a source of the first volatile compound and the second compartment contains a source of the second volatile compound, advantageously the mixing chamber can assist in mixing the vaporized first and second volatiles from the first and second compartments prior to delivering the mixture to the user.

The mouthpiece body may include an air vent located between the blocking member and the downstream end of the mouthpiece body, with the air vent extends through the mouthpiece body and provides fluid communication between the outside of the mouthpiece body and the mixing chamber.

The mouthpiece body may include a downstream portion extending through the downstream end of the mouthpiece cavity, the mouthpiece body comprising an air outlet for the mouthpiece body extending through the downstream portion. In use, airflow through the cartridge assembly exits the cartridge assembly through the air outlet of the mouthpiece body for delivery to the user.

The blocking member may be secured to the mouthpiece body by at least one of an interference fit, adhesive, and welding such as ultrasonic welding. Preferably, the locking element is secured to the mouthpiece body by an interference fit. Advantageously, an interference fit simplifies the manufacture and assembly of the cartridge assembly.

The blocking element may comprise a first air flow hole configured to be positioned over the first air outlet when the cartridge is in the second position, and a second air flow hole configured to be positioned over the second air outlet when the cartridge is in second position.

Preferably, the blocking element is circular in shape. Each of the first air flow port and the second air flow port may each have an arcuate shape.

In embodiments in which the blocking member comprises a guide hole configured to cooperate with a guide pin on the cartridge, the first air flow hole or the second air flow hole may form a guide hole.

The first air flow opening and the second air flow opening can be diametrically opposed. Advantageously, providing diametrically opposed first and second air flow openings can assist in positioning the first and second compartments on opposite sides of the cartridge. Advantageously, this can promote a balanced weight distribution in the cartridge, which can facilitate handling of the cartridge and cartridge assembly during manufacturing processes.

Each of the first air flow port and the second air flow port may each extend along a quarter-arc length. In embodiments in which the first air flow hole and the second air flow hole are diametrically opposed, and each of them extends along the length of a quarter arc of a circle, the first position and the second position can be offset relative to each other by angular rotation of the cartridge by 90 degrees relative to the blocking element.

In embodiments in which the downstream end of the blocking element is circular, the downstream end of the blocking element defines a circumferential direction and a radial direction. Preferably, each of the first and second air flow openings has a maximum circumferential length of at least about 3.5 millimeters, more preferably at least about 4 millimeters. Preferably, each of the first and second air flow openings has a maximum circumferential length of less than about 5.5 millimeters, more preferably less than about 5 millimeters.

Preferably, each of the first and second air flow openings has a maximum radial width of at least about 2 millimeters, more preferably at least about 2.5 millimeters. Preferably, each of the first and second air flow openings has a maximum radial width of less than about 4 millimeters, more preferably less than about 3.5 millimeters.

The blocking member can have a diameter of at least about 6 millimeters, preferably at least about 6.5 millimeters. The blocking member may have a diameter of less than about 9 millimeters, preferably less than about 8.5 millimeters.

Preferably, each of the first and second air flow openings has a maximum flow area of at least about 3.5 square millimeters, more preferably at least about 4 square millimeters, more preferably at least about 4.5 square millimeters. Preferably, each of the first and second air flow openings has a maximum flow area of less than about 6 square millimeters, more preferably less than about 5.5 square millimeters, more preferably less than about 5 square millimeters.

The ratio of the maximum flow area of each of the first and second air flow openings to the surface area of the downstream end of the blocking member is preferably at least about 0.06, more preferably at least about 0.08, more preferably at least approximately 0.1. The ratio of the maximum flow area of each of the first and second air flow openings to the surface area of the downstream end of the blocking member is preferably less than about 0.2, more preferably less than about 0.16, more preferably less than about 0.14.

The blocking element may comprise a first blocking portion disposed between the first end of the first air flow hole and the second end of the second air flow hole. The blocking element may comprise a second blocking portion located between the second end of the first air flow hole and the first end of the second air flow hole. The first blocking portion is configured to obstruct the first air outlet when the cartridge is in the first position, and the second blocking portion is configured to obstruct the second air outlet when the cartridge is in the first position.

The cartridge assembly may further comprise a seal extending through the upstream end of the cartridge. Preferably, the seal is attached to the cartridge around the periphery of the seal to seal the first air inlet and the second air inlet. In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a cartridge body and a cartridge body, a seal may be attached to at least one of the cartridge body and the cartridge body. The seal may be attached to the cartridge by at least one of glue and welding, such as ultrasonic welding. The seal is preferably made of sheet material. The sheet material may comprise at least one of a polymer film and a metal foil.

The seal may be a brittle seal capable of being pierced by a piercing element on the aerosol generating device.

The seal may be a removable seal that can be removed by the user prior to use of the cartridge assembly. The removable seal may include a tear-off tab to facilitate removal of the seal by the user.

The first air outlet may include one opening of the first air outlet. The first air outlet may include a plurality of first air outlet openings, each of the first air outlet openings in fluid communication with the downstream end of the first compartment. Each opening of the first air outlet may have a minimum cross-sectional area, the minimum cross-sectional area being the flow area of the first air outlet. The total flow area of the first air outlet is the sum of the flow areas of one or more of the first air outlet openings.

The second air outlet may include one opening of the second air outlet. The second air outlet may comprise a plurality of second air outlet openings, each opening of the second air outlet in fluid communication with the downstream end of the second compartment. Each opening of the second air outlet may have a minimum cross-sectional area, the minimum cross-sectional area being the flow area of the second air outlet. The total flow area of the second air outlet is the sum of the flow areas of one or more of the second air outlet.

The total flow area of the first air outlet may be the same as the total flow area of the second air outlet. The total flow area of the first air outlet may be different from the total flow area of the second air outlet. To provide different air flow rates through each of the first compartment and the second compartment, different total flow areas can be selected. In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a source of the first volatile compound located in the first compartment and a source of the second volatile compound in the second compartment, providing different flow rates through the first and second compartments may account for the difference between the vapor pressure of the first volatile compound and the vapor pressure of the second volatile compound. connections at the same temperature. In embodiments in which the first and second volatiles undergo a chemical reaction with each other to form a reaction product for delivery to the user, providing different flow rates through the first and second compartments can provide the necessary stoichiometry of the reaction between the first and second volatiles downstream of the cartridge. ...

The optional and preferred features described herein in relation to the first and second air outlets can be equally applied to the first and second air inlets. In other words, each of the first and second air inlet openings may include one or more air inlet openings. The total flow area of the first air inlet may be the same as the total flow area of the second air inlet. The total flow area of the first air inlet may be different from the total flow area of the second air inlet.

The cartridge assembly may have a first mark on the mouthpiece body and a second mark on the cartridge. Preferably, the marks are designed such that the position of the first mark relative to the second mark provides a visual indication to the user of the angular orientation of the cartridge relative to the mouthpiece body. Advantageously, providing a visual indication of the angular orientation of the cartridge allows the user to determine whether the first and second air outlets are obstructed or not obstructed and in fluid communication with the mouthpiece cavity.

The assembled cartridge may contain a nicotine source located in the first compartment. The cartridge assembly may contain an acid source located in the second compartment.

In the context of this document in relation to the present invention, the term "nicotine" is used to describe nicotine, nicotine base or nicotine salt.

The nicotine source may comprise a first carrier material impregnated with nicotine in an amount of from about 1 milligram to about 50 milligrams. The nicotine source may comprise a first carrier material impregnated with nicotine in an amount of from about 1 milligram to about 40 milligrams. Preferably, the nicotine source comprises a first carrier material impregnated with nicotine in an amount of about 3 milligrams to about 30 milligrams. More preferably, the nicotine source comprises a first carrier material impregnated with nicotine in an amount of about 6 milligrams to about 20 milligrams. Most preferably, the nicotine source comprises a first carrier material impregnated with nicotine in an amount of about 8 milligrams to about 18 milligrams.

In embodiments in which the first carrier material is impregnated with a nicotine base or nicotine salt, the amounts of nicotine cited herein are the amount of nicotine base or the amount of ionized nicotine, respectively.

The first carrier material can be impregnated with liquid nicotine or with a solution of nicotine in an aqueous or non-aqueous solvent.

The first carrier material can be impregnated with natural nicotine or synthetic nicotine.

The acid source can contain organic acid or inorganic acid.

Preferably, the acid source contains an organic acid, more preferably a carboxylic acid, most preferably an alpha-keto acid or a 2-oxo acid or lactic acid.

The predominantly acid source contains an acid selected from the group consisting of 3-methyl-2-oxopentanoic acid, pyruvic acid, 2-oxopentanoic acid, 4-methyl-2-oxopentanoic acid, 3-methyl-2-oxobutanoic acid, 2-oxo-octanoic acid acid, lactic acid, and combinations thereof. Preferably, the acid source contains pyruvic acid or lactic acid. More preferably, the acid source contains lactic acid.

Advantageously, the acid source contains a second support material impregnated with acid.

The first carrier material and the second carrier material can be the same or different.

Advantageously, the first carrier material and the second carrier material have a density of from about 0.1 grams / cubic centimeter to about 0.3 grams / cubic centimeter.

Advantageously, the first support material and the second support material have a porosity of from about 15 percent to about 55 percent.

The first carrier material and the second carrier material may comprise one or more of the following: glass, cellulose, ceramic, stainless steel, aluminum, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), poly (cyclohexane dimethylene terephthalate) (PCT), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) and BAREX ^®.

The first carrier material acts as a nicotine reservoir.

Advantageously, the first carrier material is chemically inert with respect to nicotine.

The first carrier material can be of any suitable shape and size. For example, the first carrier material can be in the form of a sheet or rod.

Advantageously, the shape and size of the first carrier material is similar to the shape and size of the first compartment of the cartridge.

The shape, size, density and porosity of the first carrier material can be selected such that the required amount of nicotine can be impregnated into the first carrier material.

Advantageously, the first compartment of the cartridge may further comprise a flavoring agent. Suitable flavors include, but are not limited to, menthol.

Advantageously, the first carrier material can be impregnated with a flavoring agent in an amount of from about 3 milligrams to about 12 milligrams.

The second carrier material acts as a reservoir for acid.

Advantageously, the second support material is chemically inert towards acid.

The second carrier material can be of any suitable shape and size. For example, the second support material can be in the form of a sheet or rod.

Advantageously, the shape and size of the second carrier material is similar to the shape and size of the second compartment of the cartridge.

The shape, size, density and porosity of the second support material can be selected such that the required amount of acid can be impregnated into the second support material.

Preferably, the acid source is a lactic acid source containing a second carrier material impregnated with lactic acid in an amount of from about 2 milligrams to about 60 milligrams.

Preferably, the lactic acid source comprises a second carrier material impregnated with lactic acid in an amount of about 5 milligrams to about 50 milligrams. More preferably, the lactic acid source comprises a second carrier material impregnated with lactic acid in an amount of about 8 milligrams to about 40 milligrams. Most preferably, the lactic acid source comprises a second carrier material impregnated with lactic acid in an amount of from about 10 milligrams to about 30 milligrams.

The shape and dimensions of the first compartment of the cartridge can be selected to accommodate the required amount of nicotine in the cartridge.

The shape and dimensions of the second compartment of the cartridge can be selected to accommodate the required amount of acid in the cartridge.

The ratio of nicotine to acid required to achieve an appropriate reaction stoichiometry can be controlled and balanced by varying the volume of the first compartment relative to the volume of the second compartment.

In embodiments in which the cartridge assembly comprises a nicotine source located in the first compartment and an acid source located in the second compartment, nicotine vapor that is released from the nicotine source in the first compartment of the cartridge, and acid vapor that is released from the acid source in the second compartment of the cartridge can react with each other in the gas phase in the mouthpiece cavity to form an aerosol of nicotine salt particles.

The first compartment of the cartridge may be coated with one or more nicotine resistant materials and the second compartment of the cartridge may be coated with one or more acid resistant materials.

Examples of suitable nicotine resistant materials and acid resistant materials include, but are not limited to, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), epoxy resins , polyurethane resins, vinyl resins, and combinations thereof.

The use of one or more nicotine resistant materials to form the cartridge and / or coat the interior of the first compartment of the cartridge can advantageously extend the shelf life of the cartridge assembly.

The use of one or more acid resistant materials to form the cartridge and / or coat the interior of the second compartment of the cartridge can advantageously extend the shelf life of the cartridge assembly.

The cartridge assembly may contain one or more aerosol modifying agents disposed in the mouthpiece cavity. For example, the mouthpiece cavity can contain one or more sorbents, one or more flavorings, one or more chemically perceivable agents, or a combination thereof.

The cartridge may include a third compartment for receiving a heating element of the aerosol generating device. Preferably, the third compartment is located between the first compartment and the second compartment. In other words, the first compartment and the second compartment are located on either side of the third compartment. Preferably, the third compartment comprises a compartment opening at the upstream end of the cartridge. In use, a heating element of the aerosol generating device is housed in the third compartment to heat the first compartment and the second compartment.

The cartridge may include a pantograph for inductively heating the first compartment and the second compartment. In such embodiments, the pantograph is advantageously located between the first compartment and the second compartment. In other words, the first compartment and the second compartment are located on either side of the pantograph.

In use, heating the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge to a temperature above ambient temperature advantageously allows the concentration in the vapor of volatile compounds stored in the first and second compartments to be controlled. For example, in embodiments in which the cartridge assembly comprises a nicotine source located in the first compartment and an acid source located in the second compartment, heating the first and second compartments allows the nicotine vapor pressure in the first compartment and the acid vapor pressure in the first compartment to be adjusted and proportionally balanced. the second compartment to obtain an effective stoichiometry of the reaction between nicotine and acid. Advantageously, this can improve the efficiency of nicotine salt particle formation and the stability of their delivery to the user. Advantageously, it can also reduce the delivery of unreacted nicotine and unreacted acid to the user.

Each of the cartridge, locking element and mouthpiece body can be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, aluminum, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyimides such as Kapton®, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE), high density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), fluorinated ethylene –Propylene (FEP), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyoxymethylene (POM), epoxy resins, polyurethane resins, vinyl resins, liquid crystal polymers (LCP) and modified LCPs such as LCP with graphite fiber or glass fiber.

The cartridge, blocking element and mouthpiece body can be formed from the same or different materials. Preferably, the mouthpiece body is formed from at least one of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). Preferably, the blocking element is formed from polyethylene (PE). In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a cartridge body, the cartridge body is preferably formed from polypropylene (PP). In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a cartridge body, the cartridge is preferably formed from at least one of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and liquid crystalline polymers (LCP).

The assembled cartridge may be shaped and sized to simulate a combustion article such as a cigarette, cigar, or cigarillo. Advantageously, in such embodiments, the assembled cartridge can mimic a cigarette in shape and size.

The cartridge assembly can be from about 20 millimeters to about 60 millimeters in length, preferably from about 30 to about 50 millimeters, more preferably from about 35 millimeters to about 45 millimeters.

The assembled cartridge may have a diameter of about 5 millimeters to about 10 millimeters, preferably about 6 millimeters to about 9 millimeters, more preferably about 7 millimeters to about 8 millimeters.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device and a cartridge assembly according to the first aspect of the present invention in accordance with any of the embodiments described herein. The aerosol generating device comprises a device cavity configured to accommodate an upstream end of the cartridge assembly and a heater for heating the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge assembly of the cartridge.

In those embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a third compartment for receiving a heating element, the heater of the aerosol generating device advantageously comprises a heating element disposed in the cavity of the device and configured to be received in the third compartment of the cartridge when the upstream end cartridge assembly is placed in the cavity of the device. The heating element can be a resistive heating element. In use, a heating element is housed in the third compartment and heats the first compartment and the second compartment.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a pantograph disposed between the first compartment and the second compartment, the heater of the aerosol generating device preferably comprises an induction heater surrounding at least a portion of the cavity of the device. In use, the induction heater inductively heats the pantograph, which heats the first compartment and the second compartment.

The aerosol generating system may be configured such that, in use, the heater heats the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge to a temperature below about 250 degrees Celsius. Preferably, the aerosol generating system is configured such that the heater heats the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge to a temperature of from about 80 degrees Celsius to about 150 degrees Celsius.

Preferably, the aerosol generating system is configured such that, in use, the heater heats the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge to substantially the same temperature.

The aerosol generating device may further comprise a power supply for supplying power to the heater and a controller configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the heater.

The aerosol generating device may include one or more temperature sensors configured to measure the temperature of at least one of the heater, the first compartment, and the second compartment. In such embodiments, the controller may be configured to control the power supply to the heater based on the measured temperature.

For the avoidance of doubt, the features described above in relation to one aspect of the present invention may be applied to other aspects of the present invention as well. In particular, the features described above in relation to the cartridge assembly according to the present invention may also apply, if necessary, to the aerosol generating systems according to the present invention, and vice versa.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

in fig. 1 is a perspective view of an assembled cartridge according to an embodiment of the present invention;

in fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the cartridge assembly shown in FIG. 1;

in fig. 3 are perspective views of the cartridge body and cartridge body shown in FIG. 2;

in fig. 4 is a view of the upstream end of the cartridge body of FIG. 2;

in fig. 5 is an exploded view of the downstream end of the cartridge body shown in FIG. 2;

in fig. 6 is a perspective view of the cartridge body of FIG. 2; and

in fig. 7 is a view of the downstream end of the blocking member shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 1 shows an assembled cartridge 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The cartridge assembly comprises a mouthpiece body 12 and a cartridge 14 rotatable relative to the mouthpiece body 12. The mouthpiece body 12 includes a wall 16 at an upstream end extending through the downstream end 18 of the mouthpiece body 12. The mouthpiece body 12 defines the mouthpiece cavity 20 and includes an air outlet 22 for the mouthpiece body, passing through the wall 16 at the downstream end and in fluid communication with the mouthpiece cavity 20. A plurality of characters 24 on the outside of the mouthpiece body 12 and cartridge 14 indicate the angular orientation of the cartridge 14 relative to the mouthpiece body 12.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the assembled cartridge 10 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the cartridge 10 assembly further comprises a locking member 26 that is secured by an interference fit to the downstream end 28 of the mouthpiece body 12. The mouthpiece cavity 20 extends between the downstream end 30 of the blocking member 26 and the wall 16 at the downstream end of the mouthpiece body 12.

The cartridge 14 includes a cartridge body 32 and a cartridge body 34 that is secured to the cartridge body 32 by an interference fit. A removable seal 36 is attached to the upstream end of the cartridge 14, and the removable seal 36 is designed to be removed by a user prior to use of the cartridge 10 assembly.

FIG. 3 shows the cartridge body 32 and cartridge body 34 in more detail. The cartridge body 32 includes an upstream end 38 and an upstream end 40, with the cartridge body 32 defining a cavity 42 to receive the cartridge body 34. The upstream end 40 of the cartridge body 32 is open for insertion of the cartridge body 34 into the cavity 42 during manufacture of the cartridge 14. The cartridge body 34 comprises a first compartment 44, a second compartment 46, and a third compartment 48 disposed between the first and second compartments 44. 46. The first and second compartments 44, 46 are open at their downstream ends 50, 52 at the downstream end 54 of the cartridge body 34. The cartridge body 32 and the cartridge body 34 comprise mating portions 56, 58 so that the cartridge body 34 can only be inserted into the cartridge body 32 in one orientation. This ensures correct alignment between the downstream ends of the first and second compartments 44, 46 and the first and second air outlets provided at the downstream end 38 of the cartridge body 32, as will be further described with reference to FIG. 6.

FIG. 4 shows an upstream end 60 of a cartridge body 34 that includes a first air inlet 62 having a plurality of first air inlet openings in fluid communication with the first compartment 44 and a second air inlet 64 containing a plurality of second air inlet openings in fluid communication with second compartment 46. Third compartment 48 is open at the downstream end 60 of cartridge body 34 to receive an aerosol generating device heater for heating first and second compartments 44, 46. In an alternative embodiment, the cartridge body 34 may comprise a pantograph housed in the third compartment 48 for use with an aerosol generating device comprising an induction heater.

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the downstream end 54 of the cartridge body 34. The cartridge body 34 includes a first portion 66 and a second portion 68, which are secured by an interference fit to form a cartridge body 34. The first portion 66 forms the third compartment 48, the first side 70 of the first compartment 44, and the first side 72 of the second compartment 46. The second portion 68 forms the second side 74 of the first compartment 44, the second side 76 of the second compartment 46, the first air inlet 62 and the second inlet 64 for air. During manufacture and assembly of the cartridge body 34, the nicotine source 78 is inserted into the second side 74 of the first compartment 44, and the acid source 80 is inserted into the second side 76 of the second compartment 46 before the first and second portions 66, 68 are attached.

As shown in FIG. 6, the cartridge body 32 includes a wall 82 at an upstream end extending through the downstream end 38 of the cartridge body 32. The cartridge body 32 further comprises a stem 84 extending from the wall 82 at the downstream end, the stem 84 comprising a neck 86 and a retaining portion 88. The retaining portion 88 is rounded and has a maximum diameter greater than that of the neck 86. The body 32 of the cartridge further comprises a guide pin 90 extending from the wall 82 at the downstream end, a first air outlet 92 and a second air outlet 94. When the cartridge body 34 is housed in the cartridge body 32, the first air outlet 92 is in fluid communication with the downstream end 50 of the first compartment 44, and the second air outlet 94 is in fluid communication with the downstream end 52 of the second compartment 46.

The first air outlet 92 has a different number of first air outlet openings than the number of second air outlet openings defining the second air outlet 94. The different number of air outlet openings provides different airflows through the first and second compartments 44, 46 during use of the cartridge 10 assembly to account for the different vapor pressures of the nicotine source 78 and the acid source 80. Therefore, different air flow rates through the first and second compartments 44, 46 maintain the necessary stoichiometry of the reaction between nicotine vapor and acid vapor downstream of the cartridge 14 in the cavity 20 of the mouthpiece.

FIG. 7 shows the downstream end 30 of the blocking element 26. The blocking element 26 includes an opening 96 for receiving the neck 86 of the rod 84 on the cartridge body 32. Shaft 84 is omitted in FIG. 7 to show bore 96. During assembly of cartridge 10 assembly, bore 96 is elastically deformed to receive retaining portion 88 of rod 84 as retaining portion 88 is pushed through bore 96. After holding portion 88 has been fully pushed through bore 96, a stepped change in diameter between the retaining portion 88 and the neck 86 prevents the retaining part 88 from being pulled back through the opening 96. The diameter of the neck 86 is slightly smaller than the diameter of the opening 96, so that the neck 86 is free to rotate in the opening 96, allowing the cartridge 14 to rotate relative to the blocking element 26. When the neck 86 is located in the opening 96, the wall 82 at the downstream end of the cartridge body 32 abuts the upstream end of the blocking element 26.

The blocking member 26 further comprises a first air flow opening 98 and a diametrically opposed second air flow opening 100, each air flow opening being in the shape of a quarter circle. The first blocking portion 102 extends between the first end of the first air flow hole 98 and the second end of the second air flow hole 100. The second blocking portion 104 extends between the second end of the first air flow hole 98 and the first end of the second air flow hole 100.

The first air flow hole 98 also defines a guide hole in which the guide pin 90 of the cartridge body 32 is received. The blocking member 26 includes a first recess 106 at the first end of the first air flow hole 98 for receiving the guide pin 90 when the cartridge 14 is in a first position relative to the locking member 26. The blocking member 26 includes a second recess 108 at the second end of the first air flow hole 98 to accommodate the guide pin 90 when the cartridge 14 is in the second position relative to the locking element 26.

When the cartridge 14 is in the first position, the first blocking portion 102 obstructs the first air outlet 92 on the cartridge body 32, and the second blocking portion 104 obstructs the second air outlet 94 on the cartridge body 32. The first detent 110 on the locking member 26 increases the force required to move the guide pin 90 out of the first recess 106, which reduces the risk of accidental rotation of the cartridge 14 from the first position.

When the cartridge 14 is in the second position, the first air outlet 92 on the cartridge body 32 is in fluid communication with the mouthpiece cavity 20 through the first air flow opening 98, and the second air outlet 94 on the cartridge body 32 is in fluid communication with cavity 20 of the mouthpiece through the second hole 100 for air flow. The second detent 112 on the locking member 26 increases the force required to move the guide pin 90 into the second recess 108 to provide a tactile confirmation to the user when the cartridge 14 is fully rotated to the second position. The second retainer 112 also retains the guide pin 90 in the second recess 108 to hold the cartridge 14 in the second position during use of the cartridge 10 assembly.

During use of the cartridge 10 assembly, the user removes the removable seal 36 from the upstream end of the cartridge 14 and rotates the cartridge 14 to a second position such that the first and second air outlets 92, 94 are in fluid communication with the mouthpiece cavity 20. ... The cartridge 10 assembly is combined with the aerosol generating device to form an aerosol generating system, with the cartridge 10 assembly accommodating the heater of the aerosol generating device in the third compartment 48 for heating the first and second compartments 44, 46. When the user puffs at the downstream end 16 of the mouthpiece body 12, air is drawn into the cartridge 10 assembly through the first and second air inlets 62, 64. Air flows from the first and second air inlets 62, 64 through the first and second compartments 44, 46 where nicotine vapor and acid vapor are entrained in the air stream. Nicotine and acid vapors flow through the first and second air outlets 92, 94 into the mouthpiece cavity 20 through the first and second openings 98, 100 for air flow of the blocking element 26. In the mouthpiece cavity 20, nicotine and acid vapors react in the gas phase to form an aerosol from nicotine salt particles, which is delivered to the user through the air outlet 22 of the mouthpiece body.

Claims (34)

1. Cartridge assembly for use in an aerosol generating system, wherein the cartridge assembly contains: a mouthpiece body having an upstream end and a downstream end, the mouthpiece body defining a mouthpiece cavity extending between the upstream end of the mouthpiece body and the downstream end of the mouthpiece body; a blocking element secured in the mouthpiece cavity and having an upstream end and a downstream end; and a cartridge located at the upstream end of the mouthpiece body, wherein the cartridge contains: an upstream end and a downstream end; a first compartment having a first air inlet at the upstream end of the cartridge and a first air outlet at the downstream end of the cartridge; and a second compartment having a second air inlet at the upstream end of the cartridge and a second air outlet at the downstream end of the cartridge; the downstream end of the cartridge is adjacent the upstream end of the blocking member; wherein the cartridge is rotatable relative to the locking element from the first position to the second position; and the blocking element is shaped such that the upstream end of the blocking element obstructs the first air outlet and the second air outlet when the cartridge is in the first position, and the first air outlet and the second air outlet both are in fluid communication with the mouthpiece cavity when the cartridge is in the second position. 2. The cartridge assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that one of the blocking element and the cartridge contains an opening, and wherein the other of the blocking element and the cartridge contains a rod, and at least part of the rod is located in the opening. 3. A cartridge assembly according to claim 2, wherein the opening passes through the blocking element between the upstream end of the blocking element and the downstream end of the blocking element, and the rod extends from the downstream end cartridge. 4. Cartridge assembly according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the rod contains a neck located in the hole and a retaining part at the end of the neck, while the retaining part is located outside the hole and has a diameter that is larger than the diameter of the hole. 5. A cartridge assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cartridge comprises a guide pin extending from the downstream end of the cartridge, the guide pin being adjacent to the first part of the locking element when the cartridge is in the first position, and when this, the guide pin abuts the second part of the locking element when the cartridge is in the second position. 6. Cartridge assembly according to any of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that the cartridge contains: a cartridge body disposed at an upstream end of the mouthpiece body and rotatable relative to the blocking member from a first position to a second position; and a cartridge body secured to the cartridge body, the cartridge body defining a first compartment and a second compartment. 7. A cartridge assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the blocking element is spaced from the downstream end of the mouthpiece body and a portion of the mouthpiece cavity between the downstream end of the blocking element and the downstream end the mouthpiece body forms a mixing chamber. 8. The cartridge assembly of claim 7, wherein the mouthpiece body comprises an air vent located between the blocking element and the downstream end of the mouthpiece body, wherein the air inlet passes through the mouthpiece body and provides fluid communication between the outside of the mouthpiece housing and the mixing chamber. 9. A cartridge assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the blocking element comprises a first air flow hole configured to be positioned over the first air outlet when the cartridge is in a second position, and a second air flow hole made positionable over the second air outlet when the cartridge is in the second position. 10. The cartridge assembly according to claim 9, wherein the blocking member has a circular shape and each of the first air flow hole and the second air flow hole has an arcuate shape. 11. A cartridge assembly according to claim 10, wherein the first air flow hole and the second air flow hole are diametrically opposed. 12. The cartridge according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that each of the first air flow opening and the second air flow opening extends along the length of a quarter of the circular arc. 13. Cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 9-12, characterized in that the blocking element comprises a first blocking part located between the first end of the first air flow hole and the second end of the second air flow hole, wherein the blocking element comprises a second blocking part located between the second end of the first flow hole and the first end of the second air flow hole, wherein the first blocking portion is configured to obstruct the first air outlet when the cartridge is in the first position, and wherein the second blocking portion is configured to block the second air outlet when the cartridge is in the first position. 14. A cartridge assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mouthpiece body comprises an upstream portion passing through the downstream end of the mouthpiece cavity, wherein the mouthpiece body comprises an air outlet for the mouthpiece body passing through the downstream part. 15. A cartridge assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a seal extending through the upstream end of the cartridge. 16. A cartridge assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cartridge further comprises a nicotine source located in the first compartment and an acid source located in the second compartment. 17. Cartridge assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cartridge comprises a third compartment for receiving the heating element of the aerosol generating device, the third compartment comprises a compartment opening at the upstream end of the cartridge, and wherein the third compartment is located between the first compartment and the second compartment. 18. Cartridge assembly according to any one of paragraphs. 1-16, characterized in that the cartridge contains a pantograph located between the first compartment and the second compartment. 19. An aerosol generating system comprising: cartridge assembly according to any one of paragraphs. 1-16; and an aerosol generating device comprising a device cavity configured to receive an upstream end of the cartridge assembly and a heater for heating the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge assembly. 20. The aerosol generating system according to claim 19, characterized in that the heater comprises a heating element located in the cavity of the device, the cartridge comprises a third compartment for accommodating the heating element, and the third compartment contains a compartment opening on the upstream end of the cartridge, and the third compartment is located between the first compartment and the second compartment. 21. An aerosol generating system according to claim 19, wherein the heater comprises an induction heater surrounding at least a portion of the cavity of the device, and wherein the cartridge comprises a pantograph located between the first compartment and the second compartment.

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